Let's Talk About Chili

I’m sure we may all have a special memory that involves
chili. This warm dish often signifies fall and cool weather; it warms you up
from the inside out. Maybe you had chili while sitting snuggling by the fire, a
chili cheese dog right after a cold game, or maybe it's one of the first foods you
made by yourself in college. Today as I make chili for my kids, I’m reminded of
the chili from my childhood. I honestly think it had three ingredients- beef,
tomato sauce, and kidney beans.

Why, mom? I’m sure you were just trying to please our simple
palates, and I know I loved it back then. But being the foodie that I am today, I’ve
got to spice it up a bit; well, a lot. Chili is meant for so much more -- it’s the best vessel for veggies! And my kids
love it, too. Just for you, I’ve compiled my favorite chili ingredients and
recipes. Enjoy.

Chocolate.
Yeah, I said it, and I’ll say it again. Chocolate. It’s no coincidence that
it made it to the top of my list. I’m a sucker for dark chocolate, and it often
makes an appearance in my chili too. Add cocoa powder to chili for that sweet
and savory richness you crave. Recipe: Chili
with Chipotle and Chocolate

Corn. I
keep corn in the freezer for tossing into soups, corn muffins,
or stir-fry. I like the mix of sweet and crunchy, along with the yellow
contrast color that it adds to chili.

Squash. Butternut,
zucchini, and pumpkin add a delicious creaminess to soup. Puree it or shred it
in these veggies for more nutrition per spoonful. Recipe: Black
Bean ‘n’ Pumpkin Chili

Sriracha.
This red-hot sauce is a personal favorite. Just a drop or two per bowl kicks
the chili up a notch.

Quinoa.
Add this high-protein, gluten-free grain or other whole grains like rice or
barley to your chili for a nutty flavor and chunky texture that is super
satisfying; making it feel like a complete meal. Recipe: Quinoa and
Black Bean Chili

It’s all
about the toppings. Move over cheese and sour cream, my favorite toppings
for chili are cilantro, squeeze of lime, red onion, avocado, chives, and
jalapenos.

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